Autism and Criminal Justice: The Experience of Suspects, Defendants and Offenders in England and Wales

This collection provides an overview of current knowledge regarding autistic suspects, defendants, and offenders in the criminal justice system of England and Wales, examining the interaction between each stage of the process and the needs of autistic individuals. It highlights problems, strengths, and possibilities for improvement and offers recommendations for substantive change to improve treatment and outcomes for autistic people.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection offers a thorough overview of the current understanding of autistic suspects, defendants, and offenders within the criminal justice system of England and Wales. It delves into the intricate interplay between each stage of the criminal justice process and individuals with autism who are either accused or convicted of crimes. By examining the challenges, strengths, and potential opportunities for enhancing the system to better accommodate the unique needs of this vulnerable neurodiverse population, the volume aims to foster a deeper understanding and engagement with knowledge among a wide range of relevant stakeholders, including criminal justice practitioners, policymakers, academics, and clinicians.

In addition to providing a consolidated summary of the core issues in this complex field, the collection incorporates valuable recommendations for improvement. These recommendations highlight the urgent need for substantive changes in policies and practices to enhance the treatment and experiences of autistic individuals subjected to criminal justice processes while also achieving fairer and more appropriate systemic outcomes.

While the focus of this work is specifically on the criminal justice system of England and Wales, its insights and recommendations will be of significant value to researchers and policy makers working in similar systems, as well as those with an interest in neurodiversity more broadly. By shedding light on the unique challenges and needs of autistic individuals within the criminal justice system, this collection contributes to the ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity, fairness, and justice for all members of society.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032164861